Review: Based on the humorous writings of author Jean Shepherd, this beloved holiday movie follows the wintry exploits of youngster Ralphie Parker (Peter Billingsley), who spends most of his time dodging a bully (Zack Ward) and dreaming of his ideal Christmas gift, a "Red Ryder air rifle." Frequently at odds with his cranky dad (Darren McGavin) but comforted by his doting mother (Melinda Dillon), Ralphie struggles to make it to Christmas Day with his glasses and his hopes intact. A Chrsitmas Story is a classic holiday film, and it's no surprise that TBS plays it for 24 hours every Christmas Day. I particularly love this movie because it reminds me of what it was like being a kid around the holidays. Hanging out and playing in the snow with your friends, hoping and praying that Santa would deliver that one gift that you wanted that year. This film evokes nostalgia and I think that's a big reason why it stands the test of time. Everybody can watch this film over and over again and remember the exhilaration of anticipating the holiday season. Not to mention, there are a ton of iconic scenes, and a witty, humorous, and intelligent story to be told. I highly recommend this film, but proceed with caution, or "You'll shoot your eye out!"
Fun Fact: The film was released just before Thanksgiving and became a surprise hit. By the time Christmas rolled around, the movie had already been pulled from most theaters because it had been "played out". After complaints were lodged at the theater owners and the studio, the film played on select screens until after the first of the year 1984.